Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sarah Nguyen. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Sarah thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you wish you had started sooner?
Nope! I started exactly when I was supposed to. I believe there is always a time and place for how things happen in our lives. It’s designed specially for us. I had to gain knowledge and understanding in other areas of my life prior, which at the end of the day were all stepping stones that led me to where I’m at today.
Sarah , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m a nail architect/artist/creative from southern Cali based in Brooklyn, NY. I’ve been in the professional nail industry for almost 8 years but have been at my craft for 10+ years. What started as a personal expression turned into a full blown game changer in my industry as no one was really doing what I was doing. The sculptural adornment are literal pieces of artistic jewelry..using a combination of mixed metals, 14kt gold plated hardware & Swarovski crystals. My partner, friends & clients started calling me the nail architect because of the process. When you think of the description of an architect you realize that not only do they plan and develop designs, but they factor in costs, construction, design, collaborate with engineers & designers, and make sure that there is functionality & safety. All of this goes into play when working with nails, at least for me. I work with a lot of different elements, tools & products, so essentially it is like a construction site! I’m in my own lane altogether because there was nobody creating this type of work in my industry. Yes nails have been a staple since the 70s/80s/90s/00’s for a lot of women however there wasn’t the same technology or supplies then as there are now. I’m most proud of all my work honestly! I never cease to amaze myself and where I’m headed. I thank God above all for giving me these gifts and that I’ve been able to work with so many amazing clients who have become my dearest friends. I’m proud of seeing my work in magazines, campaigns (advertising and fashion), social media, the MoMA (NYC), working alongside ULTA Pro Beauty Team, seeing my work in Sephora, winning multiple awards, working with Vera Wang, Katy Perry, Laura Harrier… the list goes on. I’ve been so blessed to always lead from my intuition and heart. It’s never steered me wrong. I always take leaps of faith, I don’t limit myself or box myself in. I’ve always stayed consistent and true to who I am in everything and I NEVER pay attention to what other nail artists are doing, EVER! I’m vocal with my clients on and off set, I always communicate but never compromise on my integrity. I believe whole heartedly that it’s important to stay authentic in who you are, be kind and do things with love & stop chasing the monetary gain! Don’t do things for the money! Know your worth but never allow that to be the reason why you do anything. Not all money is good money! Period. You can have a client willing to pay your rates and more but you might have the worst experience with them because that session went against your creativity, integrity and morals. When you do things with love and move from the heart, you will always be blessed 10 fold. Keep yourself inspired, create what you want to see, don’t follow trends, be the trend.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
The flame that really kick started this fire of a journey was me moving to New York 10 years ago. I was living in LA, going through a super rough break up having to completely remove myself from a toxic environment from not only my ex, but my friends, job, lifestyle, everything (I will admit, I used to be extremely toxic as well but I thank God I’m no longer in that state of mind). I quit my job, moved back home, started a new job, finished nail school but felt so defeated because I didn’t know what I was doing with my life. I didn’t have the passion or drive for nails and only wanted to continue working in the fashion world. I’m thankful that my boss at the time (later became like a brother to me) Kyle, who was aware of my situation, suggested I come out to New York for a bit to clear my head. That two weeks turned into me packing 2 suitcases and moving to New York because I said “Eff it, I’ll go. I’ve never been but why not!” … my entire NY journey in fashion for the first few years was a constant roller coaster of doubt, fear, contemplating moving back to LA where I would be more comfortable, etc. but JR (who at the time I was newly dating is now my hubby) reminded me that everything is mind over matter. Why would I give up everything because of a couple hiccups. I was no longer working with the company that moved me to New York and I was over fashion and retail. This was no 2016, maybe April or May, quit retail and was working 3 different jobs trying to figure it out. All of a sudden everything started to line up in such a divine way that it was effortless. I started assisting Gina Edwards and had no set experience and the first job was the Balmain Yeezy Campaign with all the heavy hitters of talent on set. That day I knew I had made the right decision to fully pursue nails. Got a job at a boutique nail salon and started doing set work. Since then I have been given so many opportunities (good and bad) but don’t take any of them for granted because they have brought me to this point! Truly I am beyond grateful and blessed for every experience in this life thus far,
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Oh! There are so many! Making someone else’s day has to be the biggest reward! Knowing that I’m able to allow those around me to feel seen, heard, understood and create such beautiful works of art on their hands that truly enhances who they already are! I love being able to connect with people on a genuine level and build up those around me. I love working for myself, making my own schedule, being able to tap into so many variables of nails instead of just nails (if that makes sense) … being able to be respected as an artist. People understanding that its more than just nails! Oh and travel! I’m able to literally work anywhere!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chrmdbysarah.com
- Instagram: CHRMDbySarah